Gomi Power Bank Review: A Sustainable Way To Charge Your Devices
Powerbanks are deemed essential by many due to our reliance on technology to get us through our day. With this in mind, the market is saturated with different sizes, functions, and styles. However, with sustainability at the forefront of consumer minds, some companies are seeking to change the market, and one example is the power bank by Gomi. The one I am reviewing is part of a limited drop; however, they have a core set of designs in two different material choices.
While I already own a powerbank, one of the main downsides is when either the battery becomes depleted or the charging speed becomes outdated, there is no way to remove the battery. This is because the units are sealed shut. An example is a powerbank I bought over 10 years ago which will features 2 USB-A ports, of which one has such a low voltage it won't charge anything.
This is where Gomi comes in, who have upgraded some early versions of this product, giving me the confidence this will continue to happen. However, unlike new iterations of a product, they upgrade the one you own, helping you save money and reduce waste.
Read on to find out.
Who it suits
- Anyone looking for a powerbank which is repairable
- If you are looking for a powerbank with a unique design
- If you are willing to buy your last powerbank, as the batteries can be replaced
Who It Doesn’t
- Anyone looking for a slim powerbank
- If cost is a key factor in what you buy
What's In The Box?
Powerbank inside the box (left) and the supplied cable USB-C to USB-C (right)
About The Power Bank
- Price: £59 — 79 ($78 — 105)
- Height: 95 mm
- Width: 62 mm
- Depth: 25 mm
- Weight: 247 g
Inside the box was the powerbank and a nice white braided USB-C cable, and unlike many brands which provide a cable, Gomi didn't provide an impractical size. The cable is the same as the one featured with their speaker, which I previously reviewed. The zero plastic packaging held everything securely.
In this collaboration with Goodhood, Gomi used mailing bags, preventing them from being sent to landfill. Gomi often do collaborations with brands such as Vans, however, they also have a range of designs available all the time.
Specifications
All Gomi powerbanks feature a 10,000 mAh which is capable of outputting 18W Fast Charging on both USB-C and USB-A ports, and can charge 2 devices simultaneously. Charging through USB-C the powerbank is quoted to charge back to full in 4 hours, which can be monitored using the built-in LED indicators.
Gomi do sell a padded sleeve for their powerbanks, though without it, they claim the powerbank has a drop protection of up to 2 metres (6.56 ft).
Gomi Powerbank Product Videos
Trailer exploring the companies ethos and components of a Gomi powerbank.
Promotional video on the launch of the brand's cheaper, translucent power banks.
Aesthetics
The design of each Gomi powerbank is unique, thanks to the hand stretching and twisting of the plastics used. However, this does mean the preview image will not be an exact representation of the product. Personally, I appreciate having a one of one product as it adds character. The design of my powerbank features swirls and mixed patterns of black and white, with a logo from the mailing bag on the product. Personally, many power banks focus on the design and specifications, which is understandable, but why can a powerbank not look stylish either? The range from Gomi feels like a functional art piece and a talking point with friends and family.
Eco Credentials
Gomi have considered the environment throughout the designing of the product, and it is easy to see. The case is either a single colour transparent plastic or hand marbled multicoloured recycled plastic, depending on the model. The rear of the hand marbled one is metal with easy to remove screws, allowing Gomi to fix the device should any issues arise. While they do not show the rear of the fully plastic case designs online, I would assume they feature the same screw to make the product repairable.
Stated in the product's FAQ is that when the battery needs a replenishment in a few years time it's a maximum cost of £20, or free within the 2-year warranty period.
On all their models, Gomi is committed to using recycled plastics, and they use carefully harvested and tested batteries to ensure they’re as safe and long-lasting as new batteries.
What Do I like about the Gomi Power Bank?
As technology continues to evolve, I appreciate the commitment Gomi has to repair the technology we own, rather than selling us another version of what we have. Furthermore, the design captivates me, and you have found a style that fits your personality.
Pros
- Repairable
- Maximum repair cost is stated
- Two ports (USB-A and USB-C) allowing new and old cables to be used
- Design unlike any others I have seen
- Uses recycled batteries
Cons
- Cost to specification ratio is high
- The none plastic designs are unique, so you do not get the exact design you see.
Gomi powerbank in a sleeve made from retired courier uniforms, sold separately.
Verdict
The powerbank by Gomi by is a premium product at the price range, however in return you are getting a unique British assembled powerbank (model dependent) which is repairable for a maximum cost of £20.
Additionally, by helping to finance repairable technology, we help show there is a demand for it. Sadly, many brands are making repairing technology difficult or impossible.
The Gomi powerbank is easy to use and has really bright LEDs which clearly indicate the charge of the unit. The powerbank can also be bought with a padded sleeve made from recycled jackets, which fits very snugly into.
Personally, I love the unique design of the powerbank and the repairable construction and look forward to using the powerbank to charge my technology.
